Postdoctoral Fellow in Fungal Evolutionary Biology

The Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences (DEEP) is located in the Arrhenius Laboratories, situated at the University Campus at Frescati. Presently around 100 people, including 35 PhD students and 15 postdocs, in 25 research groups work at DEEP. 

More information about us, please visit: the Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant sciences.

Project description

The Johannesson lab at DEEP makes use of the unique lifestyles of fungi to explore evolutionary questions about individuality and genetic inheritance. The group is now looking for a motivated postdoc in evolutionary biology of fungi. The postdoc position is part of an ERC-funded project, which aims to investigate the phenomenon of early germline sequestration in (mushroom-forming) fungi. Until recently the prevailing assumption was that early germline sequestration was a trait almost uniquely found in unitary animals. This trait prevents the inheritance of somatic mutations accumulated during growth to be passed on to the next generation. Unexpectedly, the research group recently identified a pattern of early germline sequestration in the basidiomycete fungus Marasmius oreades, suggesting convergence in evolution of this key trait among major eukaryote lineages. 

The postdoc project will focus on the evolutionary causes and consequences of a germline sequestration in fungi, and the mechanisms determining their separation. The project will either have a strong emphasis on theory, molecular biology techniques and microscopy, and/or on bioinformatic and evolutionary analyses.

Main responsibilities

The position involves research in the described project.

Qualification requirements

In order to qualify for a Postdoctoral position, applicants are required to hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent relevant degree from another country. The degree must have been completed no later than when the employment decision is made.

Assessment criteria

It is considered an advantage if the doctoral degree or an equivalent degree was completed no more than three years prior to the application deadline. Under special circumstances, an older degree may also be an advantage. Special circumstances refer to sick leave, parental leave, elected positions in trade unions, service in the total defense, or other similar circumstances, as well as clinical attachment or service/assignments relevant to the subject area.

In the appointment process, special attention will be given to research skills.

About the employment

The position involves full-time employment for a minimum of two years and a maximum of three years, with the possibility of extension under special circumstances. Start date 2026-01-01 or as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from Professor hanna.johannesson@su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University's recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.